North Korea, Russia reaffirm ties on Korean Liberation Day

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin have reaffirmed their deepening relationship, exchanging messages on the anniversary of Korean independence from Japanese colonial rule. Kim expressed his hope for the future of ties that have "carried forward the history of common struggle for justice and precious traditions of friendship."

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Kim was replying to a message of congratulations from Putin marking Saturday's 81st anniversary of Tokyo's surrender in World War Two.

Putin had sent a congratulatory message to Kim marking the 81st anniversary of Tokyo's surrender in World War Two, noting that the bond was forged as Soviet soldiers fought Japan and that cooperation would continue. This exchange highlights the growing alignment between Pyongyang and Moscow since North Korea began supplying troops and weapons to support Russia's war in Ukraine.

This involvement marks North Korea's most significant participation in a war since the 1950s. The strengthening relationship was further symbolized by the arrival of the Russian ship Pallada at Wonsan port for a goodwill visit tied to the liberation anniversary.

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The North Korean leader expressed hope for the future of ties that had "carried forward the history of common struggle for justice and precious traditions of friendship."

Meanwhile, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung called for dialogue with North Korea aimed at peaceful coexistence. He urged the two Koreas to establish safeguards against conflict and work towards replacing the Korean War's armistice with a formal peace regime, though Pyongyang has consistently rejected such overtures.

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The Russian leader said the bond was forged as Soviet soldiers fought against Japan and that cooperation would continue "in all the sectors."